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12 September 2024
IOM Yemen: Harvesting Hope: Transforming Yemen’s Future Through Water and Agriculture
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Press Release
09 September 2024
IOM Yemen: IOM Launches New Community Response Point in Hays Amidst Yemen’s Escalating Displacement Crisis
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Speech
09 September 2024
THE SECRETARY-GENERAL -- MESSAGE ON THE OCCASION OF THE INTERNATIONAL DAY TO PROTECT EDUCATION FROM ATTACK
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Latest
The Sustainable Development Goals in Yemen
The Sustainable Development Goals are a global call to action to end poverty, protect the earth’s environment and climate, and ensure that people everywhere can enjoy peace and prosperity. These are the goals the UN is working on in Yemen:
Publication
30 April 2024
UN Yemen Country Results Report 2023
United Nations Country Team in Yemen:The United Nations Country Team (UNCT) in Yemen comprises representatives from 19 United Nations Funds, Programmes, and Specialized agencies, led by the United Nations Resident Coordinator. This team is pivotal in assisting Yemen to meet its development goals and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Among these members, five agencies operate without a physical presence within the country, highlighting the challenging context in which the UNCT operates. The team collaborates closely with a United Nations Information Centre (UNIC), crucial for disseminating information about the UN’s activities in Yemen.
The activities of the Yemen UNCT are guided by a strategic United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) specifically tailored for Yemen, extending through 2025. Initiated in the 2022, this cooperation framework is a vital planning and implementation tool for the UNCT’s development initiatives in Yemen. It is closely aligned with Yemen’s context and the global 2030 Agenda, setting forth four strategic pillars that lead to specific outcomes and outputs. Oversight and strategic guidance for this framework is provided by the Programme Management Team (PMT) that includes relevant UN agencies. To support its operations, the Yemen UNCT benefits from various coordination mechanisms, including four Results Groups that align with the strategic outcomes of the Cooperation Framework. The framework’s implementation is further supported by an Operations Management Team (OMT), a United Nations Communications Group (UNCG), and Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning Group (MEL). These entities play a crucial role in ensuring the UN’s work in Yemen is coherent, effective, and efficient, despite the complex challenges faced in the country. United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework:STRATEGIC PILLAR 1: INCREASE FOOD SECURITY, IMPROVING LIVELIHOOD OPTIONS AND JOB CREATION Outcome: Availability, sustainability and inclusive access to quality nutrition, food security, environment, and resilient livelihoods enhanced.Focus areas:Enhancement of Nutritional and Health Quality and Diversity.Sustainable Agricultural Practices.Inclusive Access to Resources and Markets.Climate Resilience and Adaptation in Food Systems.Strengthening Local Food Systems and Short Supply Chains. STRATEGIC PILLAR 2: PRESERVE AND STRENGTHEN INCLUSIVE, EFFECTIVE, AND EFFICIENT NATIONAL AND LOCAL DEVELOPMENT SYSTEMSOutcome:
Rights-based experience of the governance and Rule of Law services and frontline stakeholders enhanced.Focus areas:Capacity Building of Governance Institutions.Education and Awareness on Rights.Enhancing Service Delivery.Gender Equality and Non-Discrimination.Access to Justice and Legal Aid.Public Participation and Inclusion. STRATEGIC PILLAR 3: DRIVE INCLUSIVE ECONOMIC STRUCTURAL TRANSFORMATIONOutcome:Access to decent work with livelihood opportunities for resilience to economic shocks increased for all.Focus areas:Skills Development and Vocational Training.Support Small and Medium Enterprises.Labor Rights and Protection.Social Protection.Economic Support.Gender Equality and Access. STRATEGIC PILLAR 4: BUILD SOCIAL SERVICES, SOCIAL PROTECTION AND INCLUSION FOR ALLOutcome:
Quality, access and use of needs-based, equitable, inclusive social protection and social services improved.Focus areas:Healthcare Access and Equity.Education for All.Child and family Welfare.Income and Livelihood Support.Accessibility and Inclusion.
The activities of the Yemen UNCT are guided by a strategic United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) specifically tailored for Yemen, extending through 2025. Initiated in the 2022, this cooperation framework is a vital planning and implementation tool for the UNCT’s development initiatives in Yemen. It is closely aligned with Yemen’s context and the global 2030 Agenda, setting forth four strategic pillars that lead to specific outcomes and outputs. Oversight and strategic guidance for this framework is provided by the Programme Management Team (PMT) that includes relevant UN agencies. To support its operations, the Yemen UNCT benefits from various coordination mechanisms, including four Results Groups that align with the strategic outcomes of the Cooperation Framework. The framework’s implementation is further supported by an Operations Management Team (OMT), a United Nations Communications Group (UNCG), and Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning Group (MEL). These entities play a crucial role in ensuring the UN’s work in Yemen is coherent, effective, and efficient, despite the complex challenges faced in the country. United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework:STRATEGIC PILLAR 1: INCREASE FOOD SECURITY, IMPROVING LIVELIHOOD OPTIONS AND JOB CREATION Outcome: Availability, sustainability and inclusive access to quality nutrition, food security, environment, and resilient livelihoods enhanced.Focus areas:Enhancement of Nutritional and Health Quality and Diversity.Sustainable Agricultural Practices.Inclusive Access to Resources and Markets.Climate Resilience and Adaptation in Food Systems.Strengthening Local Food Systems and Short Supply Chains. STRATEGIC PILLAR 2: PRESERVE AND STRENGTHEN INCLUSIVE, EFFECTIVE, AND EFFICIENT NATIONAL AND LOCAL DEVELOPMENT SYSTEMSOutcome:
Rights-based experience of the governance and Rule of Law services and frontline stakeholders enhanced.Focus areas:Capacity Building of Governance Institutions.Education and Awareness on Rights.Enhancing Service Delivery.Gender Equality and Non-Discrimination.Access to Justice and Legal Aid.Public Participation and Inclusion. STRATEGIC PILLAR 3: DRIVE INCLUSIVE ECONOMIC STRUCTURAL TRANSFORMATIONOutcome:Access to decent work with livelihood opportunities for resilience to economic shocks increased for all.Focus areas:Skills Development and Vocational Training.Support Small and Medium Enterprises.Labor Rights and Protection.Social Protection.Economic Support.Gender Equality and Access. STRATEGIC PILLAR 4: BUILD SOCIAL SERVICES, SOCIAL PROTECTION AND INCLUSION FOR ALLOutcome:
Quality, access and use of needs-based, equitable, inclusive social protection and social services improved.Focus areas:Healthcare Access and Equity.Education for All.Child and family Welfare.Income and Livelihood Support.Accessibility and Inclusion.
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Press Release
26 May 2023
Joint News Release: Conflict and economic crisis drive food insecurity and malnutrition in Yemen
In a new Integrated Phase Classification (IPC) analysis on Yemen released today, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), and the UN World Food Programme (WFP) warned that, despite the slight improvements, nearly all districts under the control of the GoY were assessed to be facing high levels of food insecurity.
Yemen remains one of the most food insecure countries globally, mainly driven by the impact of conflict and economic decline, the three UN agencies added.
The report shows that Yemen continues to require attention, with hunger stalking millions of people and the situation could worsen if nothing is done to address the key drivers of food insecurity in the Middle Eastern country.
Despite modest improvements, second half of 2023 needs more investment
Today’s report showed that between January and May 2023, about 3.2 million people experienced high levels of acute food insecurity in the GoY areas, and these are classified in severe food insecurity (IPC Phase 3 and above), representing a 23 percent reduction from the October – December 2022 estimates.
Additionally, the number of people in Emergency (IPC Phase 4) almost halved to 781,000 compared to the estimates for the last quarter of 2022.
The three UN agencies warned that these modest improvements were only a ‘temporary reprieve’ as the key drivers of food insecurity remain and are projected to worsen during the period June to December 2023.
The IPC report projected a 20 percent increase in the number of people facing IPC Phase 3 and above (638,500 additional people) during the June to December period. The number of people likely to experience high levels of acute food insecurity (IPC Phase 3 or worse) is estimated to increase to 3.9 million (41 percent), out of which 2.8 million people are estimated to be in Crisis (IPC Phase 3) and 1.1 million in Emergency (IPC Phase 4).
The situation is likely to be compounded by a 20 percent decrease in humanitarian food assistance levels and the anticipated increase in food prices. While there has been a relative calm, sporadic fighting may continue in the frontline districts which further impacts food security.
Children and pregnant and lactating mothers facing acute malnutrition
As acute malnutrition continues to worsen in southern governorates, it is estimated that in 2023, half a million children will be acutely malnourished, including nearly 100,000 children who are likely to be severely malnourished. It is also estimated that up to a quarter million pregnant and lactating women (PLW) will be acutely malnourished, while child stunting levels are also very high, ranging from 35.9 percent in Abyan Lowland to 64.3 percent in Hodeida Southern Lowland.
Critical situations of acute malnutrition (IPC AMN Phase 4) persist in some parts of the southern areas. The area-level classification is expected to deteriorate further during the projection period for acute malnutrition with all 16 zones of southern governorates being classified in IPC AMN phases 3 (Serious) and above, including seven zones in IPC AMN Phase 4 (Critical).
David Gressly, the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator for Yemen, said: “The United Nations and its partners made strides in rolling back the worst food insecurity last year, but these gains remain fragile and 17 million people are still food insecure in Yemen. We thank generous donors for commitments made so far but need further support to reach the level of funding received last year to sustain an integrated humanitarian response. With adequate resources, we will reach millions of Yemenis with critical food and nutrition support, clean water, basic health care, protection and other necessities, while building people’s resilience and preparing communities across the country to withstand future shocks.”
“FAO is seized with this situation, and we are working directly with farmers on the ground to enable them to maintain their livelihoods. We make sure that smallholder farmers in Yemen will withstand any shocks which impact food security. As such, our focus, through various interventions, is to improve household food security and income by strengthening agricultural production practices, increasing labour opportunities, and diversifying livelihoods in a sustainable way that fosters peaceful coexistence,” said FAO Yemen Representative, Dr. Hussein Gadain.
UNICEF and partners reached about 420,000 children suffering from severe and acute malnutrition with lifesaving interventions in 2022., This is the highest ever reached in Yemen, thanks to the scale up of nutrition services in 4700 PHC facilities. Despite this, malnutrition levels remain critical in many areas of the Southern Governorates. A multi sectoral approach to address all forms of malnutrition is essential and together with partners UNICEF is strengthening the provision of primary health care, including early detection and treatment of severe acute malnutrition”, said UNICEF Yemen Representative, Peter Hawkins.
“WFP’s assistance is critical for getting people to firmer ground, for averting crisis and famine, for a better future, and we urge our donors to renew their commitment to supporting the most vulnerable Yemenis. Yemen's food insecurity situation remains fragile, and the hard-won gains of the past 12 months will be lost without continued and urgent support from our donors. There are women, men and children behind these IPC statistics, whose lives straddle the fine line between hope and utter devastation. We simply cannot take our foot off the gas now,” said WFP Country Director, Richard Ragan.
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Notes for editors:
About FAO: The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations that leads international efforts to defeat hunger. Our goal is to achieve food security for all and make sure that people have regular access to enough high-quality food to lead active, healthy lives. With over 194 members, FAO works in over 130 countries worldwide.
About UNICEF: United Nations Children's Fund works in some of the world’s toughest places, to reach the world’s most disadvantaged children. Across more than 190 countries and territories, we work for every child, everywhere, to build a better world for everyone.
About WFP: The United Nations World Food Programme is the world’s largest humanitarian organization, saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build a pathway to peace, stability and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters and the impact of climate change.
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Press Release
04 May 2023
Statement: Remarks at the pledging event for the FSO Safer operation co-hosted by the Netherlands and the United Kingdom
First, I want echo Achim’s thank you to the United Kingdom and the Netherlands for having organized this event.
And for contributing generously.
A third element that they both deserve credit for is recognizing early on the promise of a private-sector initiative to address the Safer which the Fahem Group and SMIT Salvage proposed in mid-2021 – a time when the previous UN plan to inspect the Safer was not moving.
The initiative called for a leading maritime salvage company to transfer the oil off the Safer and replace the decaying supertanker’s capacity.
That was the basis upon which the United Nations principals asked me to lead and coordinate UN system-wide efforts on the Safer, in September 2021.
In December 2021, United Nations senior management endorsed the UN-coordinated plan and asked UNDP to implement it, contingent upon donor funding.
In February 2021, I met with the Government of Yemen in Aden, which confirmed its support for the plan.
They have remained supportive ever since – as evidenced by a $5 million pledge that they made last year.
The Sana’a authorities had been favorable to the original initiative, but insisted that it be done under UN auspices.
In March 2022, they signed a memorandum of understanding with the UN that committed them to facilitating the operation.
A commitment that they continue to honor.
The agreement was also signed by myself with the Fahem Group, which has supported engagement in Sana’a on the initiative since 2021 on a voluntary basis.
By April 2022, the UN presented a draft operational plan to begin fundraising. The original budget for phase 1 and 2 was $144 million.
As Achim said, the Netherlands pledging event in The Hague last May brought in $33 million, which was a catalyst to move us to where we are today.
But finding funds to prevent a catastrophe proved far more difficult than finding money for a disaster.
In June, we launched a public crowdfunding campaign for the operation.
That has now brought in more than $250,000. More importantly, it captured media attention that galvanized further support for the plan.
In August, we received the first pledge from a private entity. $1.2 million from the HSA Group. The International Association of Oil and Gas Producers followed with a $10 million pledge and Trafigura Foundation with $1 million.
The private sector, we learned, was concerned about its liability linked to a contribution. UNDP, in particular, led the effort to resolve those issues of concern which gives us a basis for further private sector contributions.
By September last year, the UN met the target of $75 million to start the operation.
Unfortunately, even as UNDP was gearing up to begin, the cost of suitable replacement vessels surged, chiefly due to developments related to the war in Ukraine.
More money was also needed to start the initial phase because of the necessity to purchase a replacement vessel – also linked to the war in Ukraine as suitable vessels for lease were no longer available. The budget for the emergency phase – during which the oil will be transferred – is now $129 million. Most of the funding is now required up front in phase one. Now, the second phase only requires $19 million to complete the project.
So, the budget of $148 million is just $4 million more than was presented to donors a year ago.
Prior to today’s announcements, we had raised $99.6 million from member states, the private sector and the general public.
The general public has provided donations from $1 to $5,000.
The broad coalition working to prevent the catastrophe also includes environmental groups like Greenpeace and, in Yemen, Holm Akhdar.
Every part of the United Nations is involved, including the International Maritime Organization, the UN Environmental Progamme, and the World Food Progamme. The Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs is among those that have worked on the Safer file for years and has now ensured $20 million of bridging finance. That would need to be replenished by donor funding.
I also want to recognize the United States for playing a tireless role in mobilizing resources. It is among the top five donors, together with the Netherlands, Germany, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the United Kingdom.
On 9 March, UNDP’s Administrator took the bold decision to purchase the replacement vessel Nautica – before all of the operation was in place.
That is because UNDP recognized the extraordinary problem and understood that the cost of inaction is too great, as Achim outlined.
UNDP also contracted the Boskalis subsidiary SMIT Salvage, which played an enormously helpful role in developing the UN plan long before it had a contract.
With both the Nautica and the SMIT vessel Ndeavor en route to Djibouti, we expect the operation to start before the end of the month.
Therefore, I thank all donors for the generous support, and we look forward to further generous support.
But the risk of disaster remains.
I am forever thankful to the heroic skeleton crew aboard the Safer that continues to do all it can to keep that vessel together until we can organize this salvage operation.
None of us will heave a sigh of relief until the oil is transferred.
And we will all heave a final sigh of relief when the critical second phase is completed. This requires that the project is fully funded as described.
As everyone has said we are just one step away so lets take the final step.
Thank you.
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Publication
26 October 2022
UNITED NATIONS YEMEN SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT COOPERATION FRAMEWORK 2022 – 2024
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
UN global reform has elevated the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) to be “the most important instrument for planning and implementing UN development activities” in the country. It outlines the UN development system’s contributions to reach the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in an integrated way, with a commitment to leave no one behind, uphold human rights, Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment (GEWE), and other international standards and obligations. The UNSDCF seeks to address the humanitarian, development and peace challenges in Yemen in an environment where key public institutions are fragmented, no national strategy exists, and where there has been no national budget since 2014. The Yemen UNSDCF outlines the UN’s collective priorities and development objectives to be reached jointly in the next three years 2022-2024 as part of an ongoing and longer- term vision for resilience building and forging of a pathway to peace.
Yemen is a country in conflict. The priorities of this UNSDCF are derived from the analysis of the impacts of this ongoing crisis on the people of Yemen, and the needs and opportunities as outlined in the UN’s Common Country Analysis (CCA) conducted in 2021.
The UN has prioritized four pillars that resonate with the SDG priorities of people, peace, planet and prosperity that aim, as a matter of urgency, to improve people’s lives in Yemen and build resilience that is equitable, inclusive, people-centred, gender responsive and human rights based, through outcomes that: 1. Increase food security, improving livelihood options, and job creation 2. Preserve inclusive, effective and efficient national and local development systems strengthening 3. Drive inclusive economic structural transformation 4. Build social services, social protection, and inclusion for all
The theory of change is driven by an expectation that by 2024 the impact for all people of all ages in Yemen affected by conflict, forced displacement and living in poverty in all its dimensions will experience change in the quality of their lives. This will be possible through increased food security and nutrition, livelihood options and job creation; preserved national and local development and systems strengthening; inclusive economic structural transformation and the building of social services, social protection and inclusion for all. Food security and nutrition, and sustainable and resilient livelihoods and environmental stability will be realized through effective food production and diversified food and nutrition security; and through sustainable climate sensitive environmental management. Rights-based good governance and inclusive gender sensitive improved public services and rule of law will be possible as a result of accountable, inclusive and transparent institutions and systems, as well as the building of trusted justice systems. Increased income security and decent work for women, youth and vulnerable populations will be realised through micro and macro-economic development and job creation. Strengthened social protection and basic social support service delivery focused on support to marginalized groups, and strengthening women and youth leadership in decision making processes will be supported through the preservation of social protection and expanded and effective social assistance and basic services.
The UNSDCF prioritises the population groups in Yemen that have the highest risk of being left behind due to the impact of conflict; economic, social, geographic or political exclusion; and marginalisation. Enacting the central transformative principle of the 2030 Agenda and the SDGs, whilst challenging in the Yemen context, does provide the lens through which the UNSDCF targets the most vulnerable and prioritise Leaving No One Behind.
On the basis that some groups in Yemen bear the brunt of the conflict due to forced displacement, livelihood disruption, food insecurity, limited social safety nets, increased levels of poverty and poor-
quality housing, the CCA 2021 identifies the following population groups at the greatest risk of being left behind:
- Women and girls - 73 percent of those displaced in Yemen are women and girls, especially women of reproductive age and adolescent girls
- Children – 60 percent of those killed directly by conflict are children under five
- Youth and adolescents – an estimated 2 million school-age girls and boys are out of school as poverty, conflict, and lack of opportunities disrupt their education
- Internally displaced persons – more than 4 million IDPs with 172,000 newly displaced in 2020 and almost 160,000 in 2021
- Refugees, asylum seekers and migrants – Yemen hosts approximately 138,000 migrants and 140,000 refugees and asylum seekers
- Persons with disabilities – 4.5 million Yemenis have at least one disability
- Ethnic and religious minorities – It is estimated that Muhamasheen represent 10 percent of the population living in marginalised conditions
The UNSDCF is comprised of four chapters. Chapter One: explores Yemen’s progress towards the 2030 Agenda through a detailed analysis of the country context drawing on the 2021 CCA. Chapter Two: presents the theory of change generally and per outcome area. Chapter Three: outlines the UNSDCF’s implementation plan focused on the management structure, resources, links to country programming instruments and Yemen’s Business Operations Strategy. Chapter Four: highlights the process for CCA updates, Monitoring and Evaluation and Learning. The Results Framework presents the outcomes and key performance indicators for monitoring agreed targets utilizing verifiable data sets. Two annexes capture the legal basis for all UN entities engaged in the UNSDCF and the mandatory commitments to Harmonised Approaches to Cash Transfers (HACT)1.
The UNSDCF represents the UN’s understanding that continued engagement in Yemen requires an operational architecture under-pinned by the Business Operations Strategy (BOS) and an integrated set of achievable programming priorities. These two strategic approaches of the UN system strengthen and make more inclusive the country’s national and local governance structures, and mainstream the required responses to the economic and health consequences of COVID-19. They tackle food insecurity and nutrition as a matter of priority and integrate the promotion and advancement of gender equality and women’s and girl’s empowerment.
UN global reform has elevated the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) to be “the most important instrument for planning and implementing UN development activities” in the country. It outlines the UN development system’s contributions to reach the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in an integrated way, with a commitment to leave no one behind, uphold human rights, Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment (GEWE), and other international standards and obligations. The UNSDCF seeks to address the humanitarian, development and peace challenges in Yemen in an environment where key public institutions are fragmented, no national strategy exists, and where there has been no national budget since 2014. The Yemen UNSDCF outlines the UN’s collective priorities and development objectives to be reached jointly in the next three years 2022-2024 as part of an ongoing and longer- term vision for resilience building and forging of a pathway to peace.
Yemen is a country in conflict. The priorities of this UNSDCF are derived from the analysis of the impacts of this ongoing crisis on the people of Yemen, and the needs and opportunities as outlined in the UN’s Common Country Analysis (CCA) conducted in 2021.
The UN has prioritized four pillars that resonate with the SDG priorities of people, peace, planet and prosperity that aim, as a matter of urgency, to improve people’s lives in Yemen and build resilience that is equitable, inclusive, people-centred, gender responsive and human rights based, through outcomes that: 1. Increase food security, improving livelihood options, and job creation 2. Preserve inclusive, effective and efficient national and local development systems strengthening 3. Drive inclusive economic structural transformation 4. Build social services, social protection, and inclusion for all
The theory of change is driven by an expectation that by 2024 the impact for all people of all ages in Yemen affected by conflict, forced displacement and living in poverty in all its dimensions will experience change in the quality of their lives. This will be possible through increased food security and nutrition, livelihood options and job creation; preserved national and local development and systems strengthening; inclusive economic structural transformation and the building of social services, social protection and inclusion for all. Food security and nutrition, and sustainable and resilient livelihoods and environmental stability will be realized through effective food production and diversified food and nutrition security; and through sustainable climate sensitive environmental management. Rights-based good governance and inclusive gender sensitive improved public services and rule of law will be possible as a result of accountable, inclusive and transparent institutions and systems, as well as the building of trusted justice systems. Increased income security and decent work for women, youth and vulnerable populations will be realised through micro and macro-economic development and job creation. Strengthened social protection and basic social support service delivery focused on support to marginalized groups, and strengthening women and youth leadership in decision making processes will be supported through the preservation of social protection and expanded and effective social assistance and basic services.
The UNSDCF prioritises the population groups in Yemen that have the highest risk of being left behind due to the impact of conflict; economic, social, geographic or political exclusion; and marginalisation. Enacting the central transformative principle of the 2030 Agenda and the SDGs, whilst challenging in the Yemen context, does provide the lens through which the UNSDCF targets the most vulnerable and prioritise Leaving No One Behind.
On the basis that some groups in Yemen bear the brunt of the conflict due to forced displacement, livelihood disruption, food insecurity, limited social safety nets, increased levels of poverty and poor-
quality housing, the CCA 2021 identifies the following population groups at the greatest risk of being left behind:
- Women and girls - 73 percent of those displaced in Yemen are women and girls, especially women of reproductive age and adolescent girls
- Children – 60 percent of those killed directly by conflict are children under five
- Youth and adolescents – an estimated 2 million school-age girls and boys are out of school as poverty, conflict, and lack of opportunities disrupt their education
- Internally displaced persons – more than 4 million IDPs with 172,000 newly displaced in 2020 and almost 160,000 in 2021
- Refugees, asylum seekers and migrants – Yemen hosts approximately 138,000 migrants and 140,000 refugees and asylum seekers
- Persons with disabilities – 4.5 million Yemenis have at least one disability
- Ethnic and religious minorities – It is estimated that Muhamasheen represent 10 percent of the population living in marginalised conditions
The UNSDCF is comprised of four chapters. Chapter One: explores Yemen’s progress towards the 2030 Agenda through a detailed analysis of the country context drawing on the 2021 CCA. Chapter Two: presents the theory of change generally and per outcome area. Chapter Three: outlines the UNSDCF’s implementation plan focused on the management structure, resources, links to country programming instruments and Yemen’s Business Operations Strategy. Chapter Four: highlights the process for CCA updates, Monitoring and Evaluation and Learning. The Results Framework presents the outcomes and key performance indicators for monitoring agreed targets utilizing verifiable data sets. Two annexes capture the legal basis for all UN entities engaged in the UNSDCF and the mandatory commitments to Harmonised Approaches to Cash Transfers (HACT)1.
The UNSDCF represents the UN’s understanding that continued engagement in Yemen requires an operational architecture under-pinned by the Business Operations Strategy (BOS) and an integrated set of achievable programming priorities. These two strategic approaches of the UN system strengthen and make more inclusive the country’s national and local governance structures, and mainstream the required responses to the economic and health consequences of COVID-19. They tackle food insecurity and nutrition as a matter of priority and integrate the promotion and advancement of gender equality and women’s and girl’s empowerment.
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Story
29 August 2024
UNDP Yemen: From catch to consumption: Supporting the fishery sector in Yemen
In many communities of Yemen, families struggle to provide enough ingredients to prepare daily meals. Food insecurity is an issue across the country, which is still reeling from decades of protracted conflict.In response to Yemen’s deepening food insecurity crisis, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has partnered with the World Bank’s International Development Association, the Public Work Project (PWP), and Small and Micro Enterprise Promotion Service (SMEPS) to implement the Sustainable Fishery Development in Red Sea and Gulf of Aden (SFISH) Project. SFISH aims to improve economic opportunities, increase food security, and provide effective management of fishery production in Yemen. The project will benefit over 5,000 individuals involved in the fishery sector. Mohammed: A fisherman by birthMohammed is a fisherman from the Brom Mayfa District of Hadramout Governate in Yemen. He is married with five children and the main breadwinner for his family. For income to survive, as with thousands of other artisanal fishermen who ply their trade in Yemen's coastal waters, he is completely reliant upon fishing. It is a tough and risky way to make a living and Mohammed faces numerous dangers on a daily basis; not least being at the mercy of the sea and changing weather patterns. For this reason, it is essential he has good quality equipment, including a reliable outboard motor and a good boat. However, due to economic difficulties, he has not been able to replace his outboard motor, originally purchased in 2007, and now has far exceeded its life span. This restricts Mohammed’s fishing to coastal areas, preventing him from venturing into deeper waters where he would be likely to increase his catch. “I have had this engine since 2007, and I leave it to you to calculate its age. It has exhausted me greatly as it does not allow me to venture far out into the sea to catch abundant and diverse types of fish," shares Mohammed.The Sustainable Fisheries Development in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden (SFISH) Project has extended a lifeline to fisherfolk such as Mohammed by providing targeted learning and capacity development. The topics are based upon the needs identified by the fisherfolk themselves and include both simple financial business management as well as vocational activities such as fish handling, engine maintenance and health and safety.Following completion of the learning programme, Mohammed received a grant, allowing him to purchase a new outboard motor. This coupled with his new training will support a more secure future for Mohammed’s small fishing enterprise. Mohammed notes, “I am overjoyed today, and I have never experienced such happiness in my entire life. I have never received any support before, so I am very, very happy. This engine will allow me to travel great distances, catch many fish, and sail anytime I want, day or night. There is no obstacle preventing me from succeeding now.” Anwaar: Championing a nautical legacy.Anwaar, a 28-year-old woman also from Brom Mayfa District in Hadhramaut Governorate, is supporting the fishing sector by processing catch from fisherfolk such as Mohammed. Anwaar views her profession not merely as a means of sustenance, but as a proud legacy passed down through generations. Following her father's death and her mother’s illness, she took on key family responsibilities, continuing their tradition in the fishing industry.Starting a new fish product business in a city where most people are already engaged in the sector poses significant challenges. “Here in Brom Mayfa, establishing a fishing business is different. The market is saturated, and competition is fierce," Anwaar explains. However, through training provided by UNDP’s local partner SMEPS under the SFISH Project, she gained valuable insights into market research, competition, and seizing seasonal opportunities. The training also equipped Anwaar with skills in producing over eight different types of seafood products, enhancing her ability to navigate the fluctuating prices of certain fish. Anwaar received a grant through the SFISH project, allowing her to successfully purchase and process raw materials, turning them into market-ready products. Inspired by her father’s renowned dish, "Haneeth," traditionally cooked in a "Tanour" oven, Anwaar carries on his legacy by offering the same unique flavour that had earned him many loyal customers. By doing so, she secures a niche in the market, particularly during Ramadan, when demand for her products peaks.Anwaar named her business "Ba-Salom for Haneeth," honouring her family’s legacy in the industry. This venture has allowed her to afford her mother’s medical treatment and support her family. Reflecting on her journey, Anwaar expresses her gratitude, "I could never have afforded all the necessary equipment on my own. The support I received motivated me to start producing and selling within a month." Anwaar is now dedicated to making this business her sole source of income, honouring the years her father and grandfather spent at sea by continuing their legacy.More information: Sustainable Fishery Development in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden
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Story
20 August 2024
IOM Yemen: Driven by Compassion: Act of Kindness That Change Lives
Al Mokha, Yemen In her role as a Protection staff member with the International Organization for Migration (IOM), Latifa comes across new challenges and heart-wrenching stories each day. At the Community Response Point in Al-Qadi on Yemen’s West Coast, she listens with empathy as 60-year-old Sahar recounts her harrowing experience.For the past eight months, Sahar has been awaiting news of her son, who vanished at sea with seven other fishermen after setting sail in perilous weather. Since the death of her daughter-in-law a few months ago, Sahar has been the sole caregiver for her four grandchildren. Latifa listens attentively, letting Sahar know she is not alone, that there are people who care. Latifa’s deep sense of responsibility and empathy for those she assists is rooted in her early days in the humanitarian field. Starting out as an interpreter, she found herself increasingly dedicated to the vulnerable groups she encountered during field visits, as she laid the foundation for her current role.“In the beginning, I saw it as a career opportunity, but when I witnessed the impact my work had on other people’s lives, I was determined to continue working in this field,” Latifa explains. This passion has driven her to remain dedicated to her work for the past 18 years.Given her hectic schedule, Latifa is grateful for her mother and sister, who have helped care for her four children throughout the years, allowing her to balance career and motherhood. Additionally, her husband has played a crucial role by assisting with regular visits to the children’s schools and caring for them when they are sick. “My husband has been my biggest supporter and the source of my strength and dedication to my work,” she says. In her daily work, Latifa connects newly displaced people with IOM services, including health care and camp management and camp coordination, and other partners. Together with her colleagues, she distributes dignity kits and cash to vulnerable cases and organizes awareness sessions and referrals for mental health and psychosocial support.Latifa regularly assists people like Ali, who has only just arrived from the outskirts of Hays, fleeing the escalating conflict in the area. Although his relatives welcomed him, their home was already overcrowded with five families, including 12 children and a newborn. While waiting for a better solution, Ali set up a makeshift shelter outside the house to stay close to his family. He is thankful that the gunshot wound he sustained to his finger while escaping wasn’t more severe. Latifa and the team continuously assess and address the needs of newly displaced individuals, offering essential support. Currently, Ali is set to receive a tarpaulin and dignity kits for his family. Meanwhile, inside the house, his niece Shaima is busy caring for her newborn. She has called that place home for the past three years. When her daughter Hafida was born seven months ago, they had no roof, so rain poured directly into the room. Since then, she has received cash from IOM to upgrade the home.Latifa also conducts regular monitoring visits to people IOM has already supported, like Katiba. When her husband died two years ago, 30-year-old Katiba thought she would never recover. Eight months pregnant with their daughter Rawan, she was devastated when her husband, a motorcycle driver, was killed in a mine explosion near the frontlines. Katiba had warned her husband about the risks, but their daughter’s asthma required ongoing medication, so he needed to work to provide for the family. Upon seeing his lifeless body when the neighbours brought it to her house, Katiba was overcome with grief and struggled to find the will to carry on.As she began to recover, the conflict around her escalated. Fearing for her children’s safety and haunted by painful memories, she was torn about the idea of staying in a place that reminded her of so much suffering. She didn’t have to ponder much. One night, as their house came under attack, she fled with her children, leaving everything behind. Together with her six children, Katiba sought refuge with her brother in Mokha, but she felt guilty relying on him since he had his own family to support. For several months, she survived on just one meal a day. “I never wanted to be in a position where I had to beg for food,” Katiba recounts.Hearing about IOM’s support for vulnerable people, Katiba reached out to Latifa, who helped her receive dignity kits and non-food items for her kitchen, as she had been using borrowed pots for cooking. “I didn’t even have a knife,” she recalls. “I was relying on whatever items people lent me.”At first, she sold lollipops, but she could barely make ends meet. “My brother had a small piece of land and encouraged me to use it as I saw fit,” she says. With additional cash from IOM, she chose to open a small shop on the land. With more money, Katiba hopes she could expand the shop, but for now, she is content with what she has been able to accomplish. From her brother who took her in, to the neighbour who let her use her pots, and to Latifa’s guidance and support – Katiba has been continually moved by the generosity of those around her. Though it may not be her original home, it’s beginning to feel like one. “This place has given me back my will to live,” she says.Latifa, who has been a crucial source of support for Katiba, believes her experience in the humanitarian field has taught her patience, gratitude, and how to be a better person overall. “Seeing how other people live helps me appreciate my work and what I have more each day,” she explains. “Helping people like Katiba overcome their challenges fills me with pride and honour.”World Humanitarian Day is commemorated every year on 19 August to pay tribute to humanitarian workers killed and injured in the course of their work, and to honour all aid and health workers who continue to provide life-saving support and protection to people most in need.IOM’s protection services through the MRPs and CBCs are funded by EU Humanitarian Aid, the United States Bureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration (PRM), and the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
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13 August 2024
UNDP Yemen: Young Women Entrepreneurs in Yemen: Vocational Training in the Digital Age
In Yemen, a new wave of entrepreneurship is emerging in the digital age, driven by the determination and resilience of young women. Pioneering young Yemeni women are revolutionizing the field of cellphone maintenance, blending technical expertise with business aspirations. In today’s digital age, cellphones are a household item, making their repair and upkeep a lucrative business. By participating in innovative training programmes that enhance vocational and entrepreneurial skills, Yemeni women gain access to diverse income sources and job opportunities, achieving financial independence, and ultimately benefitting their wider communities by stimulating the local economy and fostering stability and resilience. With generous funding from the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Yemen, with local partner, the Small and Micro Enterprises Promotion Service (SMEPS), is paving the path for young Yemeni women to create sustainable businesses and contribute significantly to the economic recovery of their communities. Their stories of success and impact illustrate the profound potential of empowering young women in traditionally male-dominated fields, paving the way for a brighter and more inclusive future for all. Abtahl, a trainee from Taizz Governorate, Al Shamayatain District, reflects on the training: “Through mobile maintenance training, I have gained invaluable knowledge and hands-on experience. This training has equipped me with the confidence and skills to understand and fix common cellphone malfunctions. As a result, I have not only mastered technical aspects but also embraced entrepreneurship, enabling me to earn an income, serve other women, and contribute to my community’s economic development. This journey has significantly improved my income and empowered me to share my skills and knowledge with other women, fostering economic growth and self-sufficiency.”The Vocational and Business Skills Training and Support Project (Phase II) supports the participation of women in community committees and access to technical training for vulnerable young women and men in rural areas. With a focus on women especially, the project supports access to long-term income opportunities, ensuring community members can become economically self-reliant to address their household priorities, as well as providing needed services to community members. Jawdat, a trainee from Lahj Governorate, Tuban District, discusses about how young women have become experts in the cellphone maintenance field: “Women in Yemen have become pioneers in cellphone maintenance thanks to experience and skills. By participating in training courses, they have successfully qualified for the labor market, enabling them to earn a profit.” Jawdat shares her experience: “The vocational and business skills training has provided me with invaluable experience, including building my self-confidence, learning how to effectively deal with customers, and gaining a deep understanding of marketing, suppliers, and competitors. This training has not only helped me meet the needs of my community but also allowed me to start my own project, significantly improving my living situation.” Basma, a trainee from Lahj Governorate, Tuban District, notes the importance of the participation of women in vocational training.“The participation and cooperation of women is essential. When women work together, they can achieve anything with greater efficiency. Sharing knowledge and experiences facilitates the flow of information, paving the way for significant success and breaking down barriers.” “Collaboration is key for women entrepreneurs, as it creates a strong sense of team spirit and collective empowerment,” Basma notes. When youth have adequate training and access to financial services to sustain their livelihoods through micro and small businesses, they foster a culture of entrepreneurship. This, in turn, enhances employability and promotes productive engagement, contributing significantly to the recovery and resilience of Yemeni communities. Thus, enhancing the business and entrepreneurial skills of youth is vital to sustainable development. Empowering youth through skills development helps mitigate the immediate impact of crises by creating more resilient livelihoods and laying the foundation for sustainable recovery and development, contributing to the Humanitarian-Peace-Development (HDP) Nexus in Yemen. The HDP Nexus refers to the linkages between humanitarian, development, and peace actions, focusing on the comparative advantage of each, in order to address the root causes of conflict and vulnerability. ***The Vocational and Business Skills Training and Support Project (Phase II) aims to empower 1533 young women and men in rural areas with vocational, technical, and business skills, and nurture a culture of entrepreneurship to enhance their employability and productive engagement in economic and local recovery activities. This project is funded by the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre (KSrelief). The project provides grants and technical training on a wide variety of in-demand professions across nine governorates and 24 districts: Abyan (Ahwar and Khanfir), Lahj (Al-Maqatera, Al-Qabaita, Radfan, Ras Al-Arah, Tuban), Aden (Daar Saad), Marib (Marib), Shabwah (Ar rawdah, Merkhah as sufla and Rudum), Hadramaut (Al-Mukalla, Al-Qatn, Ash shihr, Tareem), Al Maharah (Al-Ghaydah and Huswain), Ad dhale’e (Ad dhale'e and Al-Azariq), and Taiz (Al-Shamayatain Salah, Mawza and Al-Waziya). The project builds participants’ capacities in the areas of food processing, textiles and handloom, and vocational skills such as car mechanics, carpentry, cell phone repairs, home appliance maintenance, veterinary services, and solar energy systems installation and maintenance.
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31 July 2024
IOM Yemen: Cradle of Hope: Rehana’s Path to Healing from the Grip of Exploitation
In 2023, Yemen saw a significant arrival of women and girls from the Horn of Africa, totalling 21,130, including 3,773 girls. Many of these migrants endured severe forms of sexual violence, abuse, and exploitation, inflicted by ruthless traffickers and smugglers. Rehana* was one of those who faced these horrors firsthand.
Aden, Yemen – Ever since she was little, Rehana’s family remained tightly knit regardless of the hardships they endured in Ethiopia. Her father’s long struggle with a mental disorder had left her mother with the responsibility of raising Rehana on her own. Although she tried every possible way to secure a better life for her daughter, their circumstances grew increasingly dire. Eventually, the family’s situation became so bleak that they could no longer meet even their basic needs.At only 15 years old, brimming with energy and determination, Rehana decided it was time to repay her mother’s kindness. She decided to embark on the migration route from the Horn of Africa to Yemen, one of the most perilous routes globally, where around ten percent of arrivals are children, many of whom travel alone.Fascinated by the stories circulating in her village about the money migrants could earn in the Gulf countries, Rehana was determined to follow in their footsteps. Seeing a glimmer of hope in Rehana’s ambition, her mother gathered the little money she had left and prepared her for the journey ahead. With that in mind, Rehana set out for Yemen, a country she knew very little about. Her friends had told her that the journey through Yemen would be smooth and that she would reach her destination within a few days. However, they hadn’t warned her about the smugglers, who often lure young migrants with false promises of an easy journey while concealing the severe risks involved.“Most of us don’t have televisions at home to follow the news,” Rehana explains. “None of us would take the risk if we knew the reality.”Rehana’s first shock came when her presumed two-day journey stretched into two weeks. Despite having paid a significant amount for the trip, the smugglers provided minimal food, barely enough for survival. Weak and emaciated, Rehana had to walk for days under the scorching sun to reach the Yemeni shores.When she finally arrived at her intended destination in Al Bayda Governorate, she encountered an even harsher reality. The smugglers immediately detained and locked them in overcrowded, unsanitary yards. It was then that the grim reality of their situation became apparent. Only those who could afford to pay the traffickers more money were given scant food and spared from abuses. For Rehana, whose family couldn't send additional money, the situation was critical.Amid the relentless suffering, Rehana’s health quickly deteriorated. Now pregnant in her eighth month, she was not spared from abuse until one day when the smugglers reluctantly released her, fearing she might give birth in their detention yard.Broken and heavily pregnant, Rehana sought refuge with her only contact in Sana’a. As days turned into weeks, she finally held her baby’s frail hand. “The moment I heard my baby’s voice for the first time, all my exhaustion vanished as I needed to protect him from the terrifying world outside,” she recalls. Soon after the birth, the new mother was forced by circumstances to leave Sana’a in search of a safer place for herself and her baby, setting out once again on the difficult road ahead. Holding her baby, she would sometimes hitch rides with strangers or walk along the road to Aden, begging for food and water to sustain both herself and her newborn.Once she arrived in Aden, Rehana learned about the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and its support for migrants. The grueling journey and food scarcity had severely impacted her health, leaving both her and her baby in a vulnerable state. At IOM’s Migrants Response Point (MRP) in Aden, for the first time since her journey began, she felt a sense of relief. At the center, the young mother was provided with registration services, as well as much-needed food.Rehana and her baby were also offered a safe place to stay at IOM’s Community-Based Care (CBC), a facility that provides comprehensive support to vulnerable migrants. This safe environment gave Rehana a renewed sense of hope, allowing her to focus on caring for her baby without the constant worry of finding milk and other necessities. At the CBC, Rehana also received the critical medical attention and care essential for her well-being. Upon arriving at IOM facilities, many migrants, including Rehana, are often found suffering from injuries, severe dehydration, and evident signs of abuse. Their fragile condition highlights the appalling conditions they have endured. Many are held by smugglers in abysmal conditions, subjected to both physical and sexual violence. Like Rehana, many women are trapped in this violence for months on end.At the MRP, Rehana also began attending regular sessions of Mental Health and Psychological Support (MHPSS), which were vital in helping her recover emotionally from her harrowing journey. With the compassionate care and guidance provided at the MRP, Rehana gradually began to heal.IOM’s protection services through the MRPs and CBCs are funded by EU Humanitarian Aid, the United States Bureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration (PRM), and the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Aden, Yemen – Ever since she was little, Rehana’s family remained tightly knit regardless of the hardships they endured in Ethiopia. Her father’s long struggle with a mental disorder had left her mother with the responsibility of raising Rehana on her own. Although she tried every possible way to secure a better life for her daughter, their circumstances grew increasingly dire. Eventually, the family’s situation became so bleak that they could no longer meet even their basic needs.At only 15 years old, brimming with energy and determination, Rehana decided it was time to repay her mother’s kindness. She decided to embark on the migration route from the Horn of Africa to Yemen, one of the most perilous routes globally, where around ten percent of arrivals are children, many of whom travel alone.Fascinated by the stories circulating in her village about the money migrants could earn in the Gulf countries, Rehana was determined to follow in their footsteps. Seeing a glimmer of hope in Rehana’s ambition, her mother gathered the little money she had left and prepared her for the journey ahead. With that in mind, Rehana set out for Yemen, a country she knew very little about. Her friends had told her that the journey through Yemen would be smooth and that she would reach her destination within a few days. However, they hadn’t warned her about the smugglers, who often lure young migrants with false promises of an easy journey while concealing the severe risks involved.“Most of us don’t have televisions at home to follow the news,” Rehana explains. “None of us would take the risk if we knew the reality.”Rehana’s first shock came when her presumed two-day journey stretched into two weeks. Despite having paid a significant amount for the trip, the smugglers provided minimal food, barely enough for survival. Weak and emaciated, Rehana had to walk for days under the scorching sun to reach the Yemeni shores.When she finally arrived at her intended destination in Al Bayda Governorate, she encountered an even harsher reality. The smugglers immediately detained and locked them in overcrowded, unsanitary yards. It was then that the grim reality of their situation became apparent. Only those who could afford to pay the traffickers more money were given scant food and spared from abuses. For Rehana, whose family couldn't send additional money, the situation was critical.Amid the relentless suffering, Rehana’s health quickly deteriorated. Now pregnant in her eighth month, she was not spared from abuse until one day when the smugglers reluctantly released her, fearing she might give birth in their detention yard.Broken and heavily pregnant, Rehana sought refuge with her only contact in Sana’a. As days turned into weeks, she finally held her baby’s frail hand. “The moment I heard my baby’s voice for the first time, all my exhaustion vanished as I needed to protect him from the terrifying world outside,” she recalls. Soon after the birth, the new mother was forced by circumstances to leave Sana’a in search of a safer place for herself and her baby, setting out once again on the difficult road ahead. Holding her baby, she would sometimes hitch rides with strangers or walk along the road to Aden, begging for food and water to sustain both herself and her newborn.Once she arrived in Aden, Rehana learned about the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and its support for migrants. The grueling journey and food scarcity had severely impacted her health, leaving both her and her baby in a vulnerable state. At IOM’s Migrants Response Point (MRP) in Aden, for the first time since her journey began, she felt a sense of relief. At the center, the young mother was provided with registration services, as well as much-needed food.Rehana and her baby were also offered a safe place to stay at IOM’s Community-Based Care (CBC), a facility that provides comprehensive support to vulnerable migrants. This safe environment gave Rehana a renewed sense of hope, allowing her to focus on caring for her baby without the constant worry of finding milk and other necessities. At the CBC, Rehana also received the critical medical attention and care essential for her well-being. Upon arriving at IOM facilities, many migrants, including Rehana, are often found suffering from injuries, severe dehydration, and evident signs of abuse. Their fragile condition highlights the appalling conditions they have endured. Many are held by smugglers in abysmal conditions, subjected to both physical and sexual violence. Like Rehana, many women are trapped in this violence for months on end.At the MRP, Rehana also began attending regular sessions of Mental Health and Psychological Support (MHPSS), which were vital in helping her recover emotionally from her harrowing journey. With the compassionate care and guidance provided at the MRP, Rehana gradually began to heal.IOM’s protection services through the MRPs and CBCs are funded by EU Humanitarian Aid, the United States Bureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration (PRM), and the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
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22 July 2024
IOM YEMEN: YEMEN’S FIGHT AGAINST CHOLERA - Overcoming Health Barriers and Building Resilience
Shabwah, Yemen Every day, Mohammed wakes up at dawn and ventures into the deep seas off Shabwah in search of what could be his day’s wage or his family’s only meal.Mohammed learned the trade from a young age, inheriting the knowledge of the sea from his ancestors, generation after generation. Despite his love for the sea, the proud fisherman has struggled to provide for his family of nine, a challenge made even more difficult when one of his children fell ill.Located far from the main city, the community in Hawra faced a daunting 50-kilometre journey to reach the nearest medical centre. This trip represented a dreadful quest for most villagers, who could neither afford the transportation fees nor the medical expenses.“When one of our people gets sick, it becomes a heavy burden to provide them with the needed health care.Some families have no choice but to be separated from their loved ones for days in search of medical assistance, putting additional strain on their financial situation.” HEALTH EMERGENCYGrappling with its tenth year of conflict, Yemen faced the largest cholera outbreak in recent history between 2016 and 2022, with over 2.5 million suspected cases and 4,000 deaths. The latest wave has already seen over 30,000 suspected cases since the beginning of the year.Cases surged notably among the most vulnerable groups in Shabwah, who have limited to no access to essential health services. The situation was further aggravated by heavy rains and subsequent flooding, which contributed to the spread of cholera. Mohammed witnessed a woman lose her life on the way to the nearest centre because the road was cut off by floods.Responding to this urgent need, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) supported the reopening of the Hawra Health Centre in Shabwah, bringing renewed hope to Mohammed and his community. The centre was designed to address a wide range of health concerns, with cholera being one of the primary focuses. EMPOWERING COMMUNITIESIOM’s efforts to combat cholera extended beyond mere provision of medical services; the team mobilized community volunteers to raise awareness. These volunteers have dedicated themselves to assisting communities in managing the outbreak.“I was deeply moved by the suffering of our people, so I decided to become a health worker to help my community,” explains Jamila Abdullah, an IOM volunteer in Shabwah.Throughout the cholera outbreak, their primary objectives included providing essential healthcare services, improving community health literacy, and promoting public health practices. Through their unwavering support, the volunteers have significantly contributed to overall health guidance.Changing community practices and establishing new behaviours was a challenging task, but the volunteers persevered. Through door-to-door visits, they encouraged families to adopt activities that would protect their health and well-being and fostered a sense of collective responsibility.The teams began their volunteering experience at Hawra Health Centre, the sole health facility in the region. However, the cholera outbreak extended beyond the population of Hawra village and impacted migrants who face significant challenges in accessing basic healthcare. To address these needs, IOM enlisted the support of its mobile medical teams present along key migration routes. PREPAREDNESS STRATEGYIn close collaboration with Yemen’s Ministry of Public Health and Population and local health offices, IOM has continuously expanded its efforts to provide immediate aid to areas affected by widespread cholera and acute watery diarrhea (AWD). IOM’s comprehensive preparedness and response strategy ensures that treatment centers also have Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) facilities to prevent infection transmission among patients and medical staff. Given the significant risks of contaminated water, IOM supplies vulnerable communities with automatic chlorinators, water treatment chemicals, and cholera and hygiene kits.IOM’s hygiene team supported the distribution of cholera kits and conducted enhanced hygiene promotion to increase understanding and adoption of hygienic practices. Water treatment has proven instrumental in reducing the number of cholera outbreaks in affected communities. “Cholera has claimed many lives around here. Now that we have a health centre in the area, I feel much more confident about my family’s safety when I’m away at sea.” — Mohammed HOPE RESTOREDAt Hawra Health Center, volunteers addressed immediate health concerns, particularly cholera, in their community. They have not only initiated positive changes to enhance healthcare for vulnerable groups but also instilled a sense of hope and resilience across the community.Since the outbreak, health and hygiene volunteers have been tirelessly providing essential healthcare services and educational sessions to women, children and men who had long lacked access to such services. Their dedication to assisting people extends beyond regular working hours, as they continue to support people seeking help even late into the night.Over time, through collaborative and sustained efforts to combat cholera, significant progress has been made in bridging the gap in healthcare services for host communities and migrants in Shabwah. The access to healthcare services has not only laid a foundation for a healthier future but also strengthened the community’s sense of security. FOOTNOTESIOM’s cholera response in Yemen is supported by the Yemen Humanitarian Fund (YHF).
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Press Release
10 September 2024
IOM Yemen: IOM Launches New Community Response Point in Hays Amidst Yemen’s Escalating Displacement Crisis
Hays, Yemen
In a significant step to address Yemen’s ongoing humanitarian crisis, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) has inaugurated a new Community Response Point (CRP) in Hays City, located south of Al-Hodeidah Governorate. This newly established CRP, celebrated with local community members and authorities, will provide essential protection services to approximately 500 displaced families, focusing on individuals with specific needs and ensuring a dignified, tailored response to their vulnerabilities.
“The centre in Hays is a critical component of our sustained efforts to support displaced families amidst nearly a decade of conflict,” said Matt Huber, IOM’s Acting Chief of Mission in Yemen. “This facility will deliver essential services to those who have faced prolonged hardship, addressing immediate needs while striving to restore dignity and build resilience within the community. Our commitment is to provide practical, continuous support that helps individuals navigate their challenges and begin rebuilding their lives.”
The need for such services is critical as Yemen is enduring one of the most severe displacement crises globally, with over 18.2 million people – nearly half of the country’s population – in urgent need of humanitarian assistance and protection services in 2024. The ongoing conflict has severely disrupted basic services and exacerbated the suffering of displaced and vulnerable communities.
The Hays centre is designed to address these challenges through a comprehensive range of services. It employs a case management system that tackles barriers to accessing essential services, providing a confidential space for managing cases and ensuring a dignified response for those with specific needs.
Key activities include protection monitoring, psychosocial support sessions, and referrals for legal support, as well as shelter and sanitation assistance. This integrated approach aims to build upon existing social and protection structures, enhancing the capacity of individuals and groups to respond to threats and reduce reliance on harmful coping mechanisms.
The centre also adopts a Community-Based Protection approach by collaborating with Community Protection Committees in six key locations: Al-Sanah, Al-Silah, Al-Sadah, Al-Manasib, Bani Raza, and Al-Khamri. These committees are instrumental in identifying cases and making referrals, with the goal of preserving and enhancing the community’s self-protection capacities. By engaging local networks, the centre aims to build a robust system of support that empowers communities to take an active role in their protection.
Additionally, the facility addresses gaps in the humanitarian response by coordinating with partners to improve service delivery and enhance safety measures, including initiatives such as installing lighting points to boost security. IOM’s intervention in Hays is dedicated to strengthening community-based protection networks, supporting women’s groups, and integrating protection principles across all service sectors, thereby providing a comprehensive and inclusive response to the needs of displaced families.
Furthermore, IOM facilitates community-led recreational activities focused on mental health and psychosocial support within its safe spaces and CRPs, ensuring inclusivity for women, girls, and other vulnerable groups. By fostering safe, engaging environments, IOM aims to bolster community resilience and provide meaningful support to those impacted by prolonged conflict and displacement.
IOM is committed to extending these services to other underserved areas in Ma’rib and along the West Coast, where protection and humanitarian support remain critically limited. In these regions, the Organization plans to address critical gaps by opening new centres but also enhancing existing services to better meet the needs of vulnerable populations.
This vital initiative is supported by EU Humanitarian Aid and USAID’s Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance. IOM continues to call for sustained international support to alleviate the suffering of millions affected by years of prolonged conflict.
For more information, please contact:
Monica Chiriac, Media and Communications Officer: mchiriac@iom.int
IOM Yemen’s Communications Team: iomyemenmediacomm@iom.int
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Press Release
05 September 2024
IOM Yemen: IOM Appeals for USD 13.3 Million to Help Hundreds of Thousands Affected by Yemen Floods
Yemen, 5 September – In response to the severe flooding and violent windstorms affecting nearly 562,000 people in Yemen, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) has launched a USD 13.3 million appeal to deliver urgent life-saving assistance. The unprecedented weather events have compounded the humanitarian crisis in the country, leaving thousands of internally displaced persons and host communities in dire need of assistance. “Yemen is facing yet another devastating chapter in its relentless crisis, exacerbated by the intersection of conflict and extreme weather events,” said Matt Huber, IOM Yemen’s Acting Chief of Mission. “IOM teams are on the ground, working around the clock to deliver immediate relief to families affected by this catastrophe. However, the scale of the destruction is staggering, and we urgently need additional funding to ensure that the most vulnerable are not left behind. We must act immediately to prevent further loss and alleviate the suffering of those impacted.” In recent months, torrential rains and flooding have destroyed homes, displaced thousands of families, and severely damaged critical infrastructure, including health centres, schools, and roads. Across multiple governorates, including Ibb, Sana’a, Ma’rib, Al Hodeidah, and Ta’iz, thousands of people have been left without shelter, clean water, or access to basic services, and scores of lives have been tragically lost. The storms have struck as the country grapples with a cholera outbreak and escalating food insecurity, further exacerbating the vulnerability of displaced families and strained health systems. As the harsh weather conditions are expected to continue, more households are at risk of displacement and exposure to disease outbreaks due to damaged water and health infrastructure. Ma’rib Governorate has been particularly hard-hit, with strong winds since 11 August severely damaging 73 displacement sites and affecting over 21,000 households. Public services, including electricity networks, have been severely affected, aggravating the crisis in one of Yemen’s most vulnerable regions. Urgent shelter repairs and cash assistance are needed, with healthcare services and sanitation infrastructure among the most immediate priorities. Since early August, floodwaters have damaged shelters, roads, water sources, and medical facilities, leaving over 15,000 families in Al Hodeidah and 11,000 in Ta’iz in desperate need of emergency support. These rains have not only led to tragic loss of life but have also wiped out entire communities’ belongings and means of survival. In response to this crisis, IOM is targeting 350,000 people with shelter, non-food items (NFI), cash-based interventions, health, camp coordination and camp management, and water, sanitation, and hygiene interventions. Distribution of water tanks, latrine repairs, and desludging efforts are ongoing in multiple sites, while health services are being expanded, with mobile teams currently treating over 100 individuals and referring critical cases to hospitals. IOM’s efforts are further supported by emergency response committees working tirelessly to register and verify affected households, relocate displaced families, and reduce the risks of further damage. However, the resources available are insufficient to cover the vast needs, with key gaps remaining, especially in the shelter and NFI sector. With no contingency stocks for essential relief items and the situation growing more critical by the day, immediate funding is necessary to address the most pressing needs on the ground. IOM stands ready to scale up its response but requires the necessary resources to do so. With further severe weather expected in the coming weeks and funding constraints, the Organization is urgently calling on the international community to support this appeal to continue providing lifesaving aid and address the overwhelming needs of those affected. To read the full appeal, please visit this page. For more information, please contact: In Yemen: Monica Chiriac, mchiriac@iom.int In Cairo: Joe Lowry, jlowry@iom.int In Geneva: Mohammedali Abunajela, mmabunajela@iom.int
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Press Release
26 August 2024
UNHCR: Displaced Yemenis Struggle Amidst Growing Needs in Prolonged Crisis
Yemen The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) has released a new update highlighting the ongoing challenges for internally displaced families across Yemen. With 4.5 million people displaced and 18.2 million in need of humanitarian aid, the scale of the crisis is immense. The update, covering the first half of 2024, draws on findings from over 47,000 families, offering a glimpse into the lives of those who have endured years of conflict.The update reveals that 84% of the families surveyed are displaced, with many having been forced to flee multiple times due to persistent instability. These families, primarily from regions like Al Hudaydah, Taizz, and Hajjah, continue to make difficult choices as they navigate their uncertain futures.A significant 85% of families reported that they are unable to meet their daily food needs, often resorting to less expensive or smaller meals. “One father from Al Hudaydah described how he’s been forced to ration food, making heartwrenching decisions to ensure his children have something to eat each day. This is the harsh reality for countless families across Yemen,” said Marin Kajdomcaj, UNHCR Representative in Yemen.The update also highlights an often-overlooked crisis—civil documentation. Over 51% of families have at least one child without a birth certificate, and 70% have family members without national identity cards. These missing documents are not just pieces of paper; they are keys to accessing vital services, education, and rights. Without them, families face significant barriers to receiving assistance and accessing opportunities, compounding the challenges they already face.Beyond food insecurity, the update underscores the urgent protection needs of these displaced communities. Nearly every family has at least one vulnerable member, including women and children at risk, or individuals with disabilities.In response to these escalating needs, UNHCR is ramping up its cash assistance programs, which are the cornerstone of its support for the most vulnerable families. This includes multipurpose cash assistance to cover essential needs, emergency cash for immediate crises, cash for obtaining IDs, and cash for home rehabilitation. These programs provide families with the dignity of choice - flexibility to prioritize their most urgent needs while helping them regain stability.UNHCR is also focusing on solutions, integrating essential services into community infrastructure to ensure long-term stability. These efforts include advancing longer-term shelter solutions, such as transitional shelter units and house rehabilitation, and upgrading host community facilities through quickimpact projects that improve living conditions and foster social cohesion between displaced families and host communities.Despite the efforts to improve living conditions, a large majority of displaced families do not feel it is safe to return home. Concerns about instability, the lack of livelihood opportunities, and the dangers posed by landmines remain significant barriers to their return.“The needs of these families are urgent and immense,” added Marin Kajdomcaj. “They are not just statistics; they are parents, children, and elders who deserve the chance to live with dignity and hope. The international community must continue to stand with them and provide the necessary support.”UNHCR is calling for increased humanitarian assistance to ensure these families receive the help they need to survive and rebuild their lives. The need for sustained support has never been more critical. For more information and to access the new update, please visit [Link to Report].[FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:]Mysa Khalaf Sana’a,Yemen+967 712225158khalafm@unhcr.org
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Press Release
25 August 2024
IOM Reports 13 Dead, 14 Missing in Latest Yemen Shipwreck Disaster
Ta’iz, 25 AugustThirteen people have tragically lost their lives and 14 others remain missing after a migrant boat capsized off the coast of Yemen’s Ta’iz governorate on Tuesday (20/08). The vessel, which departed from Djibouti carrying 25 Ethiopian migrants along with two Yemeni nationals, sank near the Dubab district in Bani Al-Hakam sub-district, according to field reports from the International Organization for Migration (IOM). Among the deceased are 11 men and two women. The bodies of the deceased were recovered along the shores of Bab-al Mandab near Al-Shura in the Dubab district. Search operations are ongoing in hopes of locating the remaining missing migrants and the Yemeni captain and his assistant. Despite exhaustive efforts, the cause of the shipwreck remains unclear at this stage. “This latest tragedy is a stark reminder of the perils faced by migrants on this route,” said Matt Huber, Acting Chief of Mission for IOM in Yemen. “Every life lost in these dangerous waters is one too many, and it is imperative that we do not normalize these devastating losses and instead work collectively to ensure that migrants are protected and supported throughout their journeys. Our thoughts are with the families of those who lost their lives, and we are committed to continuing our efforts to prevent such incidents and protect vulnerable migrants.” Despite repeated warnings and ongoing interventions, the waters off Yemen continue to claim lives at an alarming rate. The capsizing in Dubab, following similar tragic shipwrecks in both June and July, is yet another devastating reminder of the extreme dangers of this migration route and the reliance on smuggling networks. Vulnerable migrants are often pushed into perilous conditions by smugglers as they attempt to flee desperate circumstances in search of safety and opportunity in the Gulf states. The migration route from the Horn of Africa to Yemen remains one of the most perilous in the world, with thousands of migrants crossing each year despite the ongoing conflict and deteriorating conditions in Yemen. IOM’s Displacement Tracking Matrix (DTM) recorded over 97,200 migrant arrivals in Yemen in 2023, surpassing the previous year’s numbers. However, with the conflict deepening, migrants remain stranded, with little access to basic services and constant exposure to violence and exploitation. This recent tragedy underscores the urgent need for more robust measures to protect migrants and prevent future loss of life. IOM urges all actors to step up support and prevent further tragedies along migration routes, and address the root causes driving irregular migration, including conflict, poverty, and climate-related challenges. Adequate funding and resources are urgently needed to address the growing needs of stranded migrants. Strengthened international collaboration and increased financial backing are essential to effectively tackle these challenges and ensure that migrants receive the necessary protection and assistance during their perilous migration journeys. Since 2014, IOM’s Missing Migrants Project has recorded 2,082 migrant deaths and disappearances on the Eastern Route, including 693 due to drowning. Despite these harrowing numbers, the international response remains severely underfunded. Note to Editors: IOM’s Missing Migrants Project is the only open-access database on migrant deaths and disappearances worldwide and the sole indicator (10.7.3) to measure safe migration in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Together with 48 other humanitarian and development organizations and governments, IOM coordinates the Regional Migrant Response Plan for the Horn of Africa, Yemen and Southern Africa (MRP) to respond to the urgent humanitarian needs of migrants along the Eastern Route. Although MRP partners appealed for USD 112 million, the appeal remains severely underfunded. For more information, please contact: Monica Chiriac, Media and Communications Officer, mchiriac@iom.int
IOM Yemen’s Communications Team, iomyemenmediacomm@iom.int
IOM Yemen’s Communications Team, iomyemenmediacomm@iom.int
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Press Release
15 August 2024
UNFPA/UNICEF Yemen: Life-saving aid critical as torrential rain sparks deadly floods across Yemen
Sana’a, 15 August 2024As relentless rain and catastrophic flooding in Yemen continue to exacerbate the suffering of families grappling with the impacts of poverty, hunger and protracted conflict, UNFPA, the United Nations Population Fund and UNICEF, the United Nations Children’s Fund, are delivering life-saving aid to some of the most vulnerable individuals through the Rapid Response Mechanism (RRM). With torrential rains forecast to continue into September, US$4.9 million is urgently needed to scale up the emergency response. Exceptionally heavy seasonal rains have caused flash floods in Yemen which are wreaking havoc in different parts of the country – the governorates of Al Hodeidah, Hajjah, Sa’ada, and Taizz are among the hardest-hit. Homes, shelters, and belongings have been swept away. Since early August, more than 180,000 people have been affected – over 50,000 people have been displaced in Al Hodeidah alone – a figure that is likely to rise in the coming days. Within 72 hours of the floods, over 80,000 people in flood-affected governorates had received emergency relief through the RRM, including ready to eat food rations, hygiene items, and women’s sanitary products. These items offer some immediate relief from the hardships caused by these catastrophic events. “The devastating floods have increased people’s needs, which are tremendous,” said Enshrah Ahmed, UNFPA Representative to Yemen. “Our RRM teams are working round the clock to provide immediate relief to affected families, but with rising needs and severe weather conditions forecasted, the coming weeks and months will be critical to ensuring affected families can pick themselves up and, at the very least, recover their lives.” In 2024, an estimated 82 percent of people supported through the RRM have been severely affected or displaced by climate-related shocks. As a result of the unseasonal levels of rain, the RRM cluster has had to spring into action, overstretching RRM teams, and depleting available supplies and resources. As needs continue to rise, RRM teams are struggling to reach affected families due to damaged roads, the erosion of landmines and unexploded ordnance from frontline to civilian areas. Items included in the RRM package are also in short supply. “The situation in the flooded areas is devastating. UNICEF and partners are on the ground providing urgently needed support to those impacted. The role of the Rapid Response Teams is critical in times of distress such as this one,” said Peter Hawkins, UNICEF Representative to Yemen.The RRM in Yemen was established in 2018 to provide a minimum package of immediate, critical life-saving assistance during human-made or natural disasters to newly displaced persons, and people in displacement sites or hard-to-reach areas, until the first line cluster response kicks in. The RRM ensures the distribution of immediate, ready-to-eat rations, basic hygiene kits provided by UNICEF, and women’s sanitary items provided by UNFPA, within 72 hours of a displacement alert. *** For more information, please contact UNFPA Taha Yaseen: Tel. +967 712 224090; yaseen@unfpa.org Lankani Sikurajapathy: Tel. +94773411614; sikurajapathy@unfpa.org UNICEF Kamal Al-Wazizah: Tel. +967 712 223 06; kalwazizah@unicef.org
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